Former Microsoft Engineer Launches Casium to Revolutionize Work Visa Applications
Image: Casium
Priyanka Kulkarni, a former Microsoft engineer with a decade-long career, has launched Casium, a Seattle-based startup aimed at transforming the often complex and time-consuming process of applying for work visas. The idea came about after Kulkarni herself faced the challenge of securing an EB-1 visa, a “genius” visa reserved for people with extraordinary abilities. While navigating the lengthy process with a top law firm, Kulkarni saw firsthand the inefficiencies of work visa applications and recognized the opportunity to improve it with AI.
The startup's goal is to simplify and streamline work visa applications for companies looking to hire international talent and for founders navigating U.S. immigration. Unlike traditional methods, which involve a lot of paperwork and often months of waiting, Casium's platform uses AI to automate much of the process, evaluating application pathways, gathering the necessary data and preparing documents autonomously. This approach can significantly shorten processing time, potentially reducing it from months to days. In partnership with immigration lawyers, the company manages the operational aspects, allowing legal professionals to focus on strategy and guidance.
Kulkarni launched Casium in April through incubator Allen Institute for AI (AI2), and the company already serves paying clients. It currently competes with established companies, such as Boundless Immigration, and is distinguished by its proprietary AI technology, which is capable of handling complex, non-standard cases. They currently have a team of six people and has not raised external capital, but receives support from the AI2 incubator.
Despite potential changes in immigration policy, Kulkarni remains optimistic, stressing the continued demand for skilled workers and the appeal of the “American dream.” Casium stands for its mission to make the visa application process easier and more accessible, helping to bridge the gap between international talent and opportunities in the United States.
